The work will be delivered by either an 'external partner' or the council’s in-house team.

A 'value-for-money' procurement exercise for the contract will be carried out shortly.

The move comes after businessman Paul Buttivant - owner of private environment enforcement firm 3GS and the man who tried to buy Argyle in 2011 - declined to say whether his patrol teams were in the running to scoop up the job.

Mr Buttivant previously told The Herald that his firm - which works on behalf of councils across the country and locally for Torbay - issue penalty notices of up to £100 to those who drop fag packets, empty crisp bags and dog poo bags.

They also call in the police if culprits fail to hand over their name and address.

The aim, the council says, is to ensure that Plymouth is a 'green and pleasant city.'

A filthy looking alleyway off Union Street (Image: Gayle McDonald)

Safer and stronger communities official Councillor Dave Downie said: "I am proud to live in this beautiful city and so keeping it clean is one of our key priorities.

"Sadly, a small minority of the population do not share this view and so we are keen to make very clear that blighting this city is not acceptable.